Kansas
Topeka Performing Arts Center
Topeka, KS
January 18, 2008

by Kim Shockley
Staff Writer

Comments: No one seemed to mind the single-digit temperatures outside as the sold-out crowd filled the Topeka Performing Arts Center in downtown Topeka, Kan. to see their very own hometown boys, the band known as Kansas. Those attending the show were treated to a very unique Kansas performance as the band was joined on stage by the talented Topeka Symphony Orchestra. Fans came from as far away as Germany, Australia and the U.K. to join other die-hard Kansas fans from around the nation for the Kansas show, always the main event for annual gathering of the Wheatheads.

The show’s opening was absolutely brilliant. Violinist David Ragsdale started the 90-minute set by making his way up the center aisle while playing the intro to “Magnum Opus.” The crowd was quite impressed as evidenced by the sound of the applause, and it would seem to many that although Robby Steinhart, the original violinist for the band is still very much missed by many, the chemistry between David and the rest of the band is undeniable.

If you made the choice to skip this show thinking it would be the same as always, you truly missed out. The return of Musicatto to the set list as well as the arrangement of Ghost/Rainmaker truly pleased the crowd. In addition to the staple songs of their live shows, they brought back “Nobody’s Home,” and the Beatles classic “Eleanor Rigby,” last performed on the 1998 Symphony Tour. This performance and the 1998 tour were both impeccably conducted by Larry Baird. This show proved to be a memorable one, in oh so many ways.

To the delight of the crowd, Kerry Livgren, the genius songwriter who gave life to two of Kansas’ most well known hits, joined his former bandmates on stage for “Dust in the Wind” about mid-way through the set, and again for the final song of the evening, “Carry on My Wayward Son.” After “Dust” Kerry received a much deserved standing ovation for his performance. No once can deny the magic that emerged from the stage during Kerry’s appearance. One can only dream what it would be like to see Kerry play the entire set. Kerry is currently making impressive music with the original members of the band who’ve come together as Proto-Kaw.

The reviews about the sound quality of the show have been mixed. The performing arts center in Topeka generally is above average when it comes to sound, but of course sound is always affected by where you happen to be sitting. "TPAC," as it is called by the locals, has generally been a place to truly enjoy a concert. It was unfortunate to say the least that many patrons complained their view was blocked on numerous occasions by staff slithering up and down the rows, snatching, then locking up any camera they saw. The behavior and demeanor of the staff and management made it appear that taking away your camera was job one that evening! It simply detracted from the enjoyment of the show.

Steve Walsh gave an amazing performance on lead vocals and keyboards, and seemed to actually be enjoying himself. He was a bit more animated compared to what you may have witnessed in recent years, and his voice was strong and smooth as glass. The vocals on "Ghost" may have been Steve’s crowning moment of the show.

The bass player, Billy Greer, who also serves as the emcee played his heart out, and his vocals were absolutely amazing. Billy kept the crowd pumped as he moves across the stage holding the rhythm of the band tight. Phil Ehart, drummer extraordinaire, worked his ass off, and truly pleased the crowd during his performance on “Miracles.”

To the dismay of the crowd, there was no encore, but most everyone left the venue with a smile on their face, and most would probably say the definitely got their money’s worth. The music of Kansas is never out of style. The proof is in the audience, where grandparents, teen-agers and every age in between gather together at every opportunity to see the forever infamous, Kansas.

Set List:
Intro/Magnum Opus
Musicatto
Point of Know Return
The Wall
Ghost/Rainmaker
Eleanor Rigby
Nobody's Home
Hold On
Dust in the Wind, featuring Kerry Livgren
Song For America
Icarus II
Icarus
Miracles
Carry On My Wayward Son, featuring Kerry Livgren

Kansas is:
Phil Ehart - Drums
Billy Greer - Bass
David Ragsdale - Violin
Steve Walsh – Keyboards, Lead Vocals
Richard Williams - Guitar

Photos provided by Kim Shockley & Gary Dean Ash